Functions of the Office of Emergency Services

In An Emergency Call 9-1-1

The Office of Emergency Services (OES) provides emergency management services countywide, in cooperation with local cities and special districts, such as fire and law enforcement agencies. During an active incident such as a fire or flood requiring emergency sheltering, OES helps to facilitate the resources necessary for first responders to protect the community.

Fire risk increasing your insurance premiums?

After several years of drought and extreme wildfires, we’re aware that Placer County residents in some forested areas are reporting steep increases in their homeowner’s insurance premiums, or even cancellations. While at the county level we don’t have any jurisdiction or control over insurance rates, we continue to focus on reducing fire hazards and are coordinating closely with the state and other heavily-forested counties to make sure insurance regulation treats our residents fairly.

We can all help by doing everything possible to be fire smart. Homeowners who are facing especially unreasonable rate adjustments are encouraged to file a complaint with the California Department of Insurance by calling 1-800-927-4357 or online at DOI

Functions of the Office of Emergency Services:

Preparedness

Planning: Preparedness is all about pre-planning and education. Our office prepares and participates in the preparation of various emergency and contingency plans ranging from evacuation plans to emergency operations plans. These plans help to specify roles and responsibilities of first responders and emergency management personnel during emergencies.

Training: Individuals in the Office of Emergency Services attend various trainings throughout the year to keep our knowledge and skills current, we also plan and organize trainings and exercises for Placer County staff and individuals of other agencies. It has been discovered that people perform like they train, so training is a crucial aspect of preparedness. Write and update County emergency plans.

Response

The Office of Emergency Services responds to emergencies ranging from wild land fires to hazardous material incidents. Our role when responding to emergencies is to represent the County of Placer, assist first responders to access equipment and personnel resources, and to gather information on the incident so that we remain informed. At scene, we do participate in the decision making process and provide guidance when needed.

Recovery

After an emergency incident is resolved, affected residents and communities begin to rebuild or recover from the situation. Our office plays a large role in the recovery process, specifically coordinating with FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), State, and County/City agencies for funding and other needed resources. Our office helps to coordinate and oversee repairs to County infrastructure.

Mitigation

Mitigation is the process of reduction the risk of natural hazards through the implementation of projects or procedures that reduce or prevent future damages. One of the plans our office prepares is called the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. This is a collaborative plan with various agencies in the County and evaluates the risks or potential hazards we have in Placer County, natural or human caused.